Is the Beartooth Highway paved?
Usa, north-america
107 km
3,342 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, road trippers! The Beartooth Highway (U.S. 212) is calling your name! This incredible stretch of asphalt straddles the Montana/Wyoming border, carving its way through the stunning Beartooth Mountains. Think seriously epic views of the Absaroka and Beartooth ranges as you climb to a whopping 10,964 feet—that's some serious altitude!
This fully paved road is a photographer's dream, winding 67 glorious miles from Red Lodge, Montana, all the way to Cooke City, Montana, right near Yellowstone's northeast entrance. Budget about 3-4 hours of pure driving time, but honestly, give yourself half a day to soak it all in. You'll want to stop...a lot!
Expect hairpin turns and steep switchbacks as you conquer this beast, but trust me, the views are worth every single twist and turn. Officially opened in 1936, this "most beautiful drive in America," delivers a crazy-cool transition from lush forests to stark alpine tundra in a matter of minutes. Expect to be blown away by shimmering glacial lakes, thundering waterfalls, and maybe even some wildlife sightings.
Keep in mind, the Beartooth is typically open from mid-May to mid-October, weather permitting. And speaking of weather, be prepared for anything! Snowstorms in summer? Yep. Strong winds? You bet. Thunderstorms? Could happen. Basically, pack for all seasons!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 107 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,342 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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